Graduation season busy time for military recruiters

DECATUR, Ala. — Robert Maguire Pope was thrilled to receive his high school diploma at Hartselle High School recently, but he said it will pale in comparison to what awaited him Tuesday in Nashville. "Definitely holding up my hand being sworn in to the U.S. Army will be a much bigger deal," the 18-year-old said. Pope signed up for the Army during his junior year in high school, becoming a fourth-generation family member to serve in that branch of military. "Some of my friends told me I was crazy for going into the military," he said. "I know it's not for everyone. At 17 years old, I decided I am willing to lay down my life for this country so the people can have the freedom to do what they want to do." The recruiters of four military branches — Marines, Navy, Air Force and Army — in Decatur said they'll be hearing more stories as such in the next few weeks. This is the bus...